According to researchers at the University of Michigan, blueberries may help to fend off belly fat and reduce risk of diabetes. Blueberries high content of phytochemicals which are a kind of antioxidant are believed to play a significant role in whittling your middle.
Lab rats who were fed a blueberry-rich mixture had less abdominal fat, lower triglycerides, lower cholesterol, and improved fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity which are key measures of how well the body uses glucose for fuel, says researchers. Blueberries seem to affect the genes that are related to fat-burning and storage.
So what does this mean for you? Toss a handful on your yogurt, throw a few in a salad or add some to your morning cereal. Even though this study was done on lab rats, health experts have long praised the blueberry for its rich antioxidants, high fiber content and low-glycemic load. Bottom line is that you can’t go wrong with making blueberries a staple in your grocery cart.
Since blueberries are a fruit that are often sprayed quite generously with pesticides, consider opting for organic. Frozen wild blueberries are also a great staple to keep in your freezer for mixing into smoothies or adding in to muffin batter.
(via WebMD)